How many bits make up the DSCP field in the IP header?

The Differentiated Services Code Point (DSCP) field in the IP header is composed of 6 bits. This field is used to classify packets and manage traffic prioritization within networks, enabling Quality of Service (QoS) implementations. By utilizing these 6 bits, the DSCP can define 64 different service levels, which helps in handling various types of traffic with differing levels of priority.

The DSCP values are encoded as part of the 8-bit header in what is originally the Type of Service (ToS) byte within the IPv4 header. The first 6 bits carry the DSCP values, while the remaining 2 bits are reserved for Explicit Congestion Notification (ECN). This structure allows for effective traffic management without significantly increasing overhead, making it essential for modern networks that require differentiated handling of data flows.